FAQs
There are tons of questions about the Viper! So many, that this FAQ had to be broken up categories.
Adding Power / Performance
- What kind of power gains can I get from aftermarket headers?
- What are some actual quarter mile times/E.T.s for the Viper?
- Should I go with larger throttle bodies on my stock Viper?
- What are some dynomometer power and torque values for the Viper?
- What's the best rear gear ratio for obtaining the Viper's top speed?
Problems and Tech Service Bulletins
- Why does my RT/10 lurch at low speeds?
- What is the annoying rattle sound from the tranny while sitting at idle with the clutch pedal released?
- Why does third gear sometimes pop out uncommanded?
- Why is it bad to rest my hand on the shifter knob?
- Why does my pre-Nov 18 1997 GTS has a very rough idle, or a very high idle?
- Will the Roadster’s soft top stay on at really high speeds?
- What can I do about the squeaky, creaky sounds coming from my side pipes ?!
- What's up with the rivet rust and/or paint bulging on my Snake's sidesills?
- Why is the coolant temperature gauge reading so HIGH?
Hard Core Tech
- How well do the stock (and ported) cylinder heads flow?
- What are the benefits of a rear gear swap?
- Why aren’t bigger throttle bodies a good idea on a stock Viper?
- Is the NACA Scoop really functional?
- Can I upgrade the Viper’s fuel system?
- How does temperature and altitude effect my V10's power output?
- Does the oil cooler always have oil flowing through it?
- Do I really need a pre-luber or pressurized reservoir for the oil system for added protection?
- Why did Dodge change the GTS oil pan from ’96 to ’97?
- How consistent are the stock rocker arm ratios / valve spring pressures?
- What are some of the concerns with aftermarket headers?
- Is there an advantage over Mild Steel vs. Stainless Headers?
- Should I get the largest-diameter primary pipe header available?
- Should I insulate the headers?
New / Prospective Owners
- Can the Viper be a daily driver?
- What's the proper Break in Procedure for the engine?
- What's that smell?
- Front License Plates - Do I have to install one?
- Why does the car have a Rough Idle?
- What's that rattling noise from the transmission while sitting in neutral?
- What kind of fuel economy can I expect?
- I'm torn between a new Vette / NSX / Porsche or a Viper - any suggestions?
- What's the best Hard Top to get for my roadster?
- Are all Hard Tops compatible?
- How can I get the transmission to stop forcing me to make the 1st-to-4th gear upshift!?
- What’s a good radar detector to get?
- How much is insurance on a Viper?
- Where’s the battery located?
- What are some tips to avoid getting car-jacked?
Wheels, Tires, and Brakes
- What kind of air pressures should my R-1s have at the track?
- Is the BFGoodrich R-1 a good tire for street driving?
- Can I mix Michelin tire types, each axle having the same type?
- What’s a good brake fluid to upgrade my braking system with?
- What are some good recommendations/observations for tires and alignment to help me set up for track racing?